THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 1016
YEAR: 1960
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO 
CASE DIAMETER: 36mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The 1016 Explorer holds the title of the Rolex watch with the longest continual production - originally launched in 1959 and made until 1989. It is also the first Rolex watch to carry the now common ‘Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified (SCOC)' text on the dial. The simple yet classy design of the 1016 stood the test of time - with modern explorers largely retaining its look. 

Over the 30-year production run of 1016, over 10 dial variations were seen. Amongst these, gilt dials were only produced until the late 1960s and in much smaller numbers, adding to their collectibility and value. 

The present example has a 'Type 1 Chater Ring' dial, which is in fact the second gilt dial variation (there is a very-rarely-seen MK0 'OCC' dial, just to add more confusion to the nomenclature). This is the first Rolex model to carry the 'SCOC' text, designating the use of the new Cal. 1560 'microstella movement'. 

The 'glowy tritium' markers have aged to a warm pumpkin patina and shine brightly under UV. The hands look to have been replaced in the mid 1960s and the lume has been stabilised. The 516xxx serial case makes this one of the earliest 1016s ever made, supported by the 'I 60' stamp on the caseback. 

The watch has not been a safe queen - it has been cared for over its lifetime as documented by the case back engravings. There are also minor scratches on the case, typical for a 64-year-old watch which adds to its charm. The movement still beats strongly at +3 s/d, 240 amps, with a 0.3 ms beat error. It comes on a later 78360 bracelet with a 1987 date code. 

Early gilt 1016s are a rare sight nowadays, with perfect examples/sets fetching over £20k+. This is a great opportunity to own one of Rolex's most iconic designs at a reasonable price.